Plan for third platform at railway station lodged

Salford Crescent station was opened in 1987 and is one of Greater Manchester's busiest

A third platform could be built at one of Greater Manchester's busiest stations.

Network Rail wants to boost capacity at Salford Crescent, which currently serves about 1.5 million people a year.

The company says the platform will reduce crowding and the need for trains to wait to be able to let passengers on or off.

It has now submitted its planning bid to Salford City Council.

The platform - which would serve the Up Bolton line - would be long enough for trains that have six 24m (78ft) carriages on them.

There would be a canopy and new staircase and lift next to the station's ticket hall, the report to Salford planners said.

Salford Crescent station was opened in 1987.